[Feature Story by Wheelock] The Peak Home to the Elite and their stories 

By Gafencu
Dec 10, 2024
The historic Craigieburn, home to the Lane Crawford family

The luxury housing market has undoubtedly picked up recently in Hong Kong, with numerous
high-profile transactions highlighting strong demand. Wheelock has for many years developed some of the finest properties on The Peak, an exclusive neighbourhood much sought after by wealthy families. With just a limited supply of properties, this area has become a world-class private sanctuary and draws intense interest from around the globe.  


Ricky Wong

Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Wheelock Properties, shares the untold stories and rich history of the Peak


“Wharf and Wheelock Properties have penned chapter after chapter of significant history on The Peak. Our upcoming project is poised to become another timeless chapter in The Peak’s illustrious history,” says Ricky Wong.  


A Privileged Serenity

For over a century, The Peak has been Hong Kong’s ultimate address, a sanctuary of serenity high above the bustling city. Its unique microclimate offers a refreshing escape, particularly during the summer months. From its origins as a retreat for colonial elites, the Peak’s history is interwoven with prominent families like the Crawfords, co-founders of Lane Crawford, who left an indelible mark on the area. In 1885, the Crawford family built Craigieburn, their grand residence. Its historical roots have remained firmly planted on Plantation Road. This prestigious address, Plantation Road, once known as Bank Street, holds a rich legacy.


From the grand residences of HSBC executives to the vibrant social scene of The Peak Club, this coveted locale has long been synonymous with exclusivity and refined living. Today, that legacy continues at Plantation Road, a contemporary tribute to The Peak’s enduring allure.      


Crafting Timeless Masterpieces on the Peak

Wharf and Wheelock are prominent developers with a significant stake in residential land on The Peak in Hong Kong. “Inspired by global cultural influences and intricate craftsmanship, we sculpt the world’s most sought-after lifestyle on the internationally renowned hilltop,” says Ricky Wong, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Wheelock Properties Limited. 


A notable example is Strawberry Hill, situated on Plunkett’s Road. This large-scale luxury residential project on the hilltop was developed in two phases in the 1970s. It features as the first large-scale club in a hilltop residential area. Even today, the project remains a rare and exclusive development, symbolizing sophistication and luxury.


Mount Nicholson, 11 Plantation Road, 77/79 Peak Road, Gough Hill Residence and Chelsea Court at 63 Mount Galley Road are other prestigious examples among the Peak Collection.


A Symphony of Design and Luxurious Living

“Living on the top is a status symbol,” says Wong. 


The upcoming project of Peak Collection, 1 Plantation Road consists of 20 low-density detached houses, with areas ranging from 4,600 to 7,500 square feet. Each house owns its private garage, offering a high degree of privacy. Five houses will be launched in the first phase. No similar type of new residential property will be found on The Peak in the next 24 months. 


The charm of Southern France

The development exudes a distinct South of France theme, which stands proudly on the top of the mountain, affording magnificent views of the sea to the south and conveying a Mediterranean ambience.


 Each space of the project has different elements, mirroring the charm of Southern France. Four uniquely themed gardens have been meticulously designed, each tailored to complement the individuality of the independent houses within the development.    


Embracing sustainability and environmental considerations were part of the project. For instance, the Peak Collection Gallery, Peak Salon incorporates the innovative reuse of leftover materials and the strategic sourcing of local materials. Leftover wall coverings and curtains were used to perfectly combine the painting style of South French artist Jean Cocteau to craft the art work. Leftover stones from the show flat helped to create artistic furnishings. 


Nature inspired

“Nature inspired our design language of organic forms crafted in materials with a close relationship to the earth, contrasted with clean lines and a polished sense of materiality. In curating the art program, we approached art as a way of strengthening this connection, evoking nature,” says Alexandra Champalimaud, a famous designer from New York who is a long term partner for Peak Collection residences of Wheelock.


The grand heritage and natural beauty of this iconic neighbourhood are effortlessly integrated into the elegant design and architecture. 


“This project holds a special combination of ease and refinement. Like the Côte d’Azur, it is about nature undisrupted yet elevated by a human expression of art and beauty. The homes combine chic elegance with a quiet sense of intimacy, revealing subtle surprises in the details,” adds Champalimaud.  


Our design exudes a level of luxury that reflects how we live today but will also endure the test of time.
– Alexandra Champalimaud | Interior Designer


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